Protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen

ABSTRACT

A protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen is described. The device comprises a holder formed for assembly with at least one physical object specimen to provide protection and preservation of the physical object specimen. The holder is further formed with a holding area for the physical object specimen and to resist disassembly and separation with the physical object specimen, once it is assembled. The protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen is further comprised of a nonvolatile electronic data storage device configured to store at least one digital image of the physical object specimen including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of the physical object specimen. The data storage device is nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication, identification device. In preferred embodiments the digital image records may have, at least in part, an immutable condition to deter or prevent alteration. One or more digital images are readable and displayable by a computer system connectable by wired or wireless means to the nonvolatile electronic storage device.

This application relates to and is a continuation-in-part of the following co-pending U.S. patent applications, all of which have been filed by the inventor herein: U.S. application Ser. No. 12/156,186, filed on May 30, 2008, entitled “Authentication and identification device for a collectable object,” U.S. application Ser. No. 12/072,618, Feb. 27, 2008 Protection and authentication device for a collectable object,” U.S. application Ser. No. 11/710,378, Feb. 23, 2007, entitled “Protection and authentication device for trading collectable objects,” U.S. application Ser. No. 11/891,407, filed Aug. 10, 2007, entitled “Collectable display panel and data storage device,” U.S. application Ser. No. 11/513,004, filed Aug. 30, 2006, entitled “Associative data storage system for collectable objects,” U.S. application Ser. No. 11/493,312, filed on Jul. 26, 2006, entitled “Protection, authentication, identification device for a collectable object”

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Often times, there is need to refer to a detailed digital image of the unique appearance characteristics of a particular physical object specimen for authentication, identification, or scientific examination. Detailed digital images of the unique appearance characteristics of a physical object specimen serve as an authentication and identification record that may be utilized for comparative identification analysis and examination. As such, digital images of physical object specimens have been cataloged and indexed in a database having an associated name or ID number reference, and then accessed by a graphical user interface through some form of an index. This typically requires online accessibility, because any data and/or images are accessed from and stored in a remote database, such as a remote host computer or remote server. This process of searching or indexing a data record can be time consuming, and can be prone to inaccurate data correlation, possible human error, data coding entry error, or simply be inhibited by the inability to access the information online due to online problems (e.g., simple failure to access the remote database). More often, as is the case for auctions of collectibles, long-term storage of medical records, items of forensics interest by various entities, and the like, such data is often transitory, and long-term storage records are not practical given the cost, or means required to maintain digital records for long periods of time.

Remote storage of digital data, such as a remote database for data and/or image storage, is potentially susceptible to all kinds of adverse conditions, malfunctions, and failures that are not “controllable” by the owner of the actual physical object in hand. Unlike the present invention, remotely stored data and images, e.g., a host computer or server, are susceptible to, for example, software and hardware failures, software viruses, theft, alterations of data or images, telecommunications failure (even temporarily), equipment failures, power failures (even temporarily), environmental calamities (floods and fire), business failures (website) (e.g., bankruptcies). Such examples of remote database failures are certainly plausible over time, are not controllable by the owner of the physical object specimen in hand, and could create an “interim or permanent failure” for the user to view any data or images at all. The present invention overcomes the aforesaid deficiencies of remote storage of data and images.

Digital picture image data has been useful in forensic sciences, pathology, medical sciences, antiquity sciences, and anthropology sciences, as well as for physical object specimens of interest or examination. Certification of collectibles such as coins, stamps, baseball cards, photographs, and historical memorabilia have also established online authentication verification wherein a user can look up an image or data by inputting a serial number associated with the collectable. However, the present invention uniquely provides genuine and needed benefits for long-term protection, authentication, and identification of a physical object specimen, by directly controllable protection and long-term storage by the owner (or user) of both the physical object specimen and any authentication image records. As such, the present invention device uniquely provides for a long-term storage solution as well, of any image record of the physical object specimen, as it is stored with the physical object specimen, at all times, in the same protective holder. Furthermore, the nonvolatile nature (no battery or on-board power source) of the data storage device provides for long-term storage without the concern of any power failure, e.g., battery failure or battery replacement required over time. The holder provides protection of the physical object specimen and the authentication image records, together, in the same protective holder.

The data storage device of the present invention is further configured to record and maintain a spectroscopic chemical image that may further identify and authenticate the unique chemical molecular chemical composition of the physical object specimen. Spectrometry is the spectroscopic technique used to assess the concentration or amount of a given chemical (atomic, molecular, or ionic) species. Spectroscopy/spectrometry is used in physical and analytical chemistry for the identification of substances through the spectrum emitted from or absorbed by them. There are many different types of spectroscopic imaging, but not limited to, including X-ray, Ultraviolet, and Infrared that would be appropriate types for producing a chemical digital image assessment of the chemical molecular structure profile of a physical object specimen. Although spectrometry is currently utilized for chemical analysis of physical object specimens the present invention uniquely stores the spectroscopic chemical image profile with the physical object specimen in the same protective holder. In combination with a digital image of the unique visual appearance characteristics of a physical object specimen, a spectroscopic image further authenticates the chemical molecular structure of the physical object specimen and serves as a useful comparative, secondary identification record. Any additional spectroscopic images, or digital images of the appearance characteristics of the physical object specimen may be recorded at a later time, and both the appearance and chemical analysis together, in combination, is an exceptionally useful tool to re-authenticate the physical object specimen and also detect any possible changes, degradation, or alteration of the physical object specimen.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

The following references may be related, at least in part, or to portions of the present invention:

U.S. Patent Application 20070113451 to McDowell describes a collectible holder that is that is fabricated from three portions—a sleeve portion, an insert portion, and a collectible receivable portion. The collectible receivable portion is insertable into, and removable from, an aperture located in the insert portion. The insert portion is inserted into the sleeve portion and sonically bonded. A Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) tag is also provided in the collectible holder to store information associated with the stored collectible. As multiple RFIDs can be read simultaneously, numerous features are provided. In one, a scanner is presented at the unloading dock of a convention. A dealer is provided with a time to go through the scanner. All of the dealer's collectibles are uploaded to a remote database, an online store is autonomously generated for the collectibles, and the inventory published to the internet as part of an online inventory of the entire convention.

U.S. Patent Application 20040039663 to Kemz describes a method and a system facilitating trade in graded encapsulated commoditized objects such as coins includes a marketplace computer operatively controlled by an online peer-to-peer trade enabling facility and storing data associated with offers to sell and offers to buy the objects being selected from a plurality of graded encapsulated objects provided by at least one third party grading firm. A host computer operatively controlled by a market maker engaged in the trade of the graded encapsulated commoditized objects stores relevant trade data associated with the objects. The Internet can be used to connect the computers and to connect sellers and buyers with the marketplace computer whereby the sellers and the buyers are provided access to the relevant trade data stored in the host computer.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,501,390 to Chainer provides methods and apparatus to detect and reliably record the physical history of a product including effects due to one or more of the following: 1) product use 2) handling 3) tampering and 4) environment of the product (as changes in the environment, such as excessive temperatures, humidity, or shocks, can result in degradation to a product). The apparatus includes a “smart card”, or, more generally, “smart token”, in combination with one or more sensors which record the external influences on the product and/or the environment and records those changes in an encrypted form. This information can then be verified by any individual who is equipped with a (possibly public) decryption key, but capability to modify this information, depending on the application, is restricted to those with access to the encrypting key. Furthermore, the apparatus contains authentication information which can be reliably verified, in particular to confirm that the apparatus is attached to the product it supposed to be attached to.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,042,650 to Mayer describes a tamperproof coin case defined by two interlocking plastic plate members ultrasonically bonded together to define a unitary assembly within which a coin and its certificate of authenticity may be permanently secured. One plate member includes a cavity for fully receiving the other plate member therein, with opposing inner surfaces of the plate members being provided with corresponding cylindrical recesses which collectively form a cylindrical cavity within which a pliable plastic retention ring is disposed, for securing the coin in a stationary position and permitting its obverse and reverse sides to be viewed through dome-shaped windows provided on the opposite sides of the case. The case is also provided with outwardly extending circumferential flanges which permit a plurality of cases to be vertically stacked for transport or storage.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20030220885 to Lucarelli describes an on-line system for authenticating a collectible item or other type of memorabilia is provided which includes a web page on a on-line title company's website for the collectible item, wherein the web page displays a digital image of the collectible item, written description of the item, and the current owner of the collectible item. The web page is assigned a unique URL address and unique password. The web page may be viewed by the general public via the Internet through the URL address in read only format. In the event of a transfer of ownership of the collectible item, the new owner is given the URL address for the web page, and the password. The new owner may then edit the owner information field on the web page by entering the password provided to him or her by the previous owner to update the owner's information displayed on the web page. In a further aspect of the invention, the collectible item is an individual video and audio segment of a celebrity reciting a greeting to an individual chosen from a selection of available greetings, which is saved on a VHS cassette or DVD, and may also be saved in a computer file and then displayed on a web page and viewed by the general public as set forth above.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,841,878 to Arnold describes a collectible article provides a multimedia representation of a desired subject. Such multimedia representation will include a visual representation of the subject appearing on at least a portion of the article. In addition to such visual media, an audible sound segment, reproducible and selectively activated as desired by an activation switch. The article is advantageously of compact, card-like format, and can be user personalized by permitting the recording, and selective playback, of a sound segment corresponding to the visually depicted image appearing on a portion thereof. The article may optionally include a space reserved for receiving an autograph. By carrying the article to places where there may be a likelihood of encountering the depicted celebrity, the owner will have same at hand for personalization by the figure. A spoken message to the presenting owner of the card-like article may there be recorded by the celebrity for long term storage and future playback, and/or the card signed in the appropriate location thereon. The article may further include displayed statistical information and the like disposed on an reverse side of the card, conveniently in the form of, for example, a liquid crystal alphanumeric display, or the like, which includes one or more rows. In a further embodiment, the above features are incorporated in a protective housing for display of existing trading cards and the like.

U.S. Patent Application No. 20070075861 to Cook describes an RFID tag configured to contain identification information in at least three forms. For instance, the RFID tag may include an RFID system, a human readable number and a bar code that may be visible on an outer surface of the body. The RFID system, the human readable number and the bar code may be adapted to generate the same asset identification number. The RFID tag may also be formed from two or more layers having a thickness sufficient to substantially eliminate interference caused by a shipping container to which the RFID tag is attached.

U.S. Patent Application No. 20030028494 to King describes a system and method for establishing and managing authenticated electronic documents (e.g. commercial contracts) whereby the content, revision status and authenticating parties are stored, tracked, retrieved and validated on demand by permitted users. Variable document data is input by user into an electronic form template and this data is captured by the system. The system derives a document number and revision number for the document and all of this identifying information is associated with the document and stored. A document digest formula is applied to generate a unique document digest. The system then generates a unique barcode for each page of the document based on the digest, document number, revision number and paging details and the barcodes are electronically added to the associated pages of the document. Either the parties to the document sign a printed copy of the barcoded document or a digital signature is applied using a third party validation service. The resultant signed and barcoded document is stored electronically whereby permitted users may locate existing documents (e.g. contracts), track document revisions and validate document contents and signatories.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,608,911 to Lofgren relates to digital watermarks integrated into holograms, watermarked hologram structures, and related applications as an authentication technique. One method creates a watermark image, and then embeds the watermark image into a holographic structure. The holographic structure is carried by a smart card. The smart card includes additional information. In one embodiment, the digital watermark includes information bits, and these information bits are used to authenticate the hologram, or the smart card. In another embodiment, the watermark's information bits are compared with the additional information carried by the smart card. The result of the comparison is used to authenticate the smart card or the hologram.

U.S. Patent Application. No. 20050103840 to Boles describes an arrangement for certifying and checking gem stones and other valuables and comprises an electron microscope (11) controlled by a computer (1) and arranged to acquire digitised electron micrographs of characteristic regions of the gem stone or other valuable, particularly the culet (13) or girdle (14) which are typically highly irregular and therefore highly characteristic of individual stones. The digitised electron micrographs are encrypted and written to an RFID (7) which can be embedded in a plastics certificate (10) of in some cases a concealed on the valuable itself. Any tampering with the gem stone (12) or other valuable can be detected by reading the stored micrographs in the tag (7) and comparing them with micrographs newly acquired from the gem stone (12) or valuable as presented for verification. For extra security, the digitised encrypted micrographs are also stored in a remote database which can also include transaction data and can be linked to a credit card database of a financial institution.

U.S. Patent Application No. 20090284754 to Haddock describes a method to generate an optical signature of a coin is disclosed. A plurality of parameters are generated and recorded related to rotational positions around the circumference of a coin. The data from these parameters are combined to produce a searchable value.

U.S. Patent Application No. 20100046068 to Tafas describes a method and apparatus for automating microscopic analysis of a plurality of data-encoded microscope slides. In embodiments, the data written to or read from the slides may comprise images, analysis protocols, analytic results and other pertinent data. Embodiments also encompass a magazine that contains a plurality of data encoded slides.

It is believed that the present invention provides unique benefits that the related art cannot, for the “protection, authentication, and identification of a physical object specimen.” For example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0113451, to McDowell, et al., teaches the use of a holder using an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Device) for storing a collectible identification number, a scanner for reading the RFID, and a processor for looking up information associated with the collectable object in an external data storage, for creation of an online store for buyers and sellers to participate in trading of the collectable objects. McDowell does not teach the storing or recording of a digital image of the unique appearance characteristics of the physical object specimen on the holder itself (with the collectable object). This would actually be opposed to McDowell's necessary teaching, and invention need, for storing online data (or possible images) for dealers and traders to access and facilitate transactions at McDowell's online store (website). As such, McDowell appropriately utilizes a typical inexpensive RFID tag for storing a collectible identification number, such as an ID number. Appropriate to McDowell's invention teaching and motivation, McDowell does not store or teach storing a detailed appearance picture image on, or with, the collectable object container itself, but rather only arguably stores image data related, or possibly a picture image that is accessed remotely. This is necessitated by McDowell's invention principle of operation, which is very different than the present invention. Also, McDowell only has a need for transitory remote storage of data or possible images, because there is no need or motivation to store any data of the collectibles after they have been sold. Unlike McDowell, the present invention includes a non-volatile data storage device that does not require any online access by a user. Additionally, in preferred embodiments of the present invention, one or more digital images of the present invention are immutable (protected from change), in part or whole, promoting and creating a long-term visual record of the unique appearance characteristics of the physical object specimen. Furthermore, the present invention for a protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen, may further record and store a spectroscopic chemical image providing the molecular characteristics of the physical object specimen, for further identification and long-term analysis of any changes to the physical object specimen over time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a preferred embodiment of a protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen is described. The device includes a holder formed for assembly with at least one physical object specimen to provide protection and preservation of the physical object specimen. The holder has a holding area for receiving the physical object specimen, and is further formed to resist disassembly and separation with the physical object specimen. The protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen also includes a nonvolatile electronic data storage device configured to store at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one appearance characteristic of the physical object specimen. The data storage device is nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication, identification device. In some preferred embodiments, at one or more digital images may be immutable and include a date record of the creation time of the digital image. One or more digital images are readable and displayable by a computer system connectable to the nonvolatile electronic storage device.

The non-volatile data storage device of the present invention may also store one or more electronic links that are capable of providing additional information related to the physical object specimen. The electronic link may include a security protocol, such as an encrypted security protocol. The protection, authentication, identification device may further include a barcode identifier that may also provide predetermined characteristics of said physical object specimen.

In another preferred embodiment, the protection, authentication, identification device holder is a microscope slide. The protection, authentication, identification device includes a nonvolatile electronic data storage device that is configured to store at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one appearance characteristic of the visual appearance of the physical object specimen. Preferred and capable nonvolatile data storage devices include: integrated circuit type data storage devices, such as a flash memory type device, or RF type devices, such as a smart card chip, and laser reactive optical type data storage devices. One or more digital images, may be immutable to deter alteration or erasing, and are readable and displayable by a computer system or computerized device. The nonvolatile data storage devices are readable by wired or wireless means depending on the type of data storage device.

Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention for a protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen includes a nonvolatile electronic data storage device configured to store at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of the physical object specimen, and further configured to store at least one spectroscopic chemical image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique molecular characteristic of the chemical composition of said at least one physical object specimen. Both the appearance image and the spectroscopic chemical image are recorded on the same non-volatile electronic data storage device and are readable and displayable by a computer system or computerized device. In alternatives of the present invention, wherein the data storage device is a flash memory type data storage device, it may also include an illuminating indicator activated by a computerized selection process.

Additional features, advantages, and embodiments of the invention may be set forth or apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description are exemplary and intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a right front perspective, exploded view of a present invention device shown disassembled.

FIG. 2 shows a top plan view of a present invention device similar to that shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a front elevation view of the present invention device shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 shows a rear elevation view of a present invention device similar to that shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 shows a right front perspective, exploded view of another embodiment of the present invention device shown disassembled.

FIG. 6 shows a right front perspective view of the present invention device similar to that shown in FIG. 5 with an optional protective cap.

FIG. 7 shows a right front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention device similar to that shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 shows a right front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention device similar to that shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

FIG. 9 shows a right front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention device.

FIG. 10 shows a diagram of a present invention device and typical corresponding interface with a standard computer system with or without Internet capability.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings that are for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not for the purpose of limiting same, FIG. 1 shows a disassembled exploded view of a protection, authentication, identification device 100, for a physical object specimen, such as coin 1. Present invention device 100 includes a holder having an upper housing 3 and a lower housing 5 that are formed to enclose, protect, and preserve a physical object specimen. A “physical object specimen” is defined as a physical object or part of a larger body of a physical object, for authentication, identification, or examination, having unique and visibly discernable appearance characteristics. In FIG. 1, collectible coin 1 is an example of a physical object specimen that is nondetachably stored with the protection, authentication and identification device 100 upon assembly. Hence it “resists detachment” from the device holder after the device is fully assembled. Coin 1 may be for instance, an ancient Roman double Denarius struck in A.D. 248. Coin 1 possesses unique appearance characteristics, such as shape, scale, strike, luster, reflectance, toning, texture, color, abrasions, die varieties, mintmarks, centering, edge reeding (or lack of), and other discernable identification characteristics or features. Other collectable objects such as stamps, currency, baseball cards, and historical documents are additional examples of other collectible type physical object specimens that would likewise be applicable to the present invention.

Coin 1 is housed in the present invention holder established by upper housing 3 and lower housing 5. These holder components may be constructed from clear plastic, e.g., acrylic, but not limited to acrylic, that resists disassembly thus promoting long-term preservation of coin 1. Other plastics, metals, compounds, and composites may be used for the holder components as well. Within the scope of the present invention, more than one physical object specimen may be held in the same holder device, in some cases two, or three, or more. The physical object specimens may be related, or unrelated, but may be held in the same holder device, and only limited by the size and shape of the holder device in relation to the number and size of physical object specimens.

A non-volatile memory (NVM) data storage device 31, such as Flash Memory Card (FMC), will be nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication, identification device when it is fully assembled. “Non-volatile” is well known in the industry as being configured without an on-board power source, such as a battery. This is useful and beneficial for long-term storage and advantageous with the nondetachable condition of the data storage device. Other examples of non-volatile data storage devices are, but are not limited to, a USB flash drive, PC Card, Memory Card, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital Card, Memory Stick, xD-Picture Card, Smart Card microchip, Optical Laser Spot (optical laser readable film, material or composite) and other compact non-volatile, solid-state data storage devices. The data storage device may be read by wired or wireless means, for a user to view at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of the physical object specimen. This particular embodiment in FIG. 1 would utilize an inexpensive flash memory cable that would connect to the pins of data storage device 31, and a USB port commonly found on a standard computer system, flash card reader device, or computerized device for a user to view the appearance characteristics for authentication and identification of coin 1. Alternately, a “computer” dedicated to the sole purpose of reading and displaying the information on data storage device 31, could be utilized.

For data security reasons in preferred embodiments, data storage device 31 is configured, in part or whole, with an immutable condition to deter alteration or erasing of at least one digital image of at least one unique appearance characteristic of the physical object specimen, such as coin 1. Immutable shall be defined herein as data that is highly resistant to change or alteration. For example, data storage device 31 may have a Read-Only-Memory (ROM) condition that is immutable, and deters a user from altering or erasing certain data or images, or all data and images. Data storage device 31 may be partitioned with a rewritable partition for updating future data or image records, and may also contain some dedicated security logic, encryption, or other security features. Functionally and structurally, the non-volatile data storage device of the present invention is electronically structured for recording and storing at least one detailed digital image record of coin 1 for comparative identification of the appearance characteristics of the physical object specimen for user authentication and verification.

A flexible, plastic core 41 secures collectable coin 1 to a holding area, preformed cavity 45, which is cut through plastic core 41 for viewing coin 1 on both sides, the obverse side and reverse side of said coin 1. A preformed incused cavity 43 nests data storage device 31 to plastic core 41. Plastic core 41, coin 1, data storage device 31, and identifier barcode label 21 are secured and contained within upper housing 3 and lower housing 5, by a method that resists disassembly and separation of components, such as, but not limited to, ultrasonic welding of the upper and lower housing during an assembly process. Either upper housing 3 or lower housing 5 or both housings may have an access opening 7 that provides for a data storage reader device or cable to electronically attach to the port end of the data storage device 31, which has been secured to the protection, authentication, identification device 100 as to resist separation from same device.

Data storage device 31 is compatible with a computer system or other computerized device with a display, for inspection of at least one digital image of coin 1 by a user to aid the user in the authentication of the unique appearance characteristics of coin 1. The digital image may include embedded security authentication elements such as a watermark, or digital signature for authentication verification of the digital image. A time and date stamp may also be recorded within the viewable frame of the digital image providing a creation time and date record for further image authentication.

Data storage device 31 may contain additional stored data including additional characteristics of collectable object of coin 1, including at least one obverse (front) and one reverse (rear) digital image, date of minting, production mintage, and condition or certification grade. Additionally, data storage device 31 may also include interesting historical information of coin 1, and may include for instance, data and digital picture images relevant to the history of coin 1. For example, coin 1 may be an ancient Roman Double Denarius struck in A.D. 248 to commemorate the 1000^(th) anniversary of Rome's founding. Detailed picture images and historical facts of the reining ruler, culture, dress, art, and other relevant historical information may be stored in data storage device 31.

Data storage device 31 may also contain predetermined external database links, such as the certification service's private network, which may be in the form of Internet Hyperlinks, that also provide additional information of collectable coin 1, and other dynamic (changing) data, such as, current certification population and current valuation. The external database may include additional security features, for example, it may maintain an encrypted relationship with the data storage device, or a partition of the data storage device, and may further require a user login and password for access to the external database.

Data storage device 31 may further be configured to store at least one spectroscopic chemical image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique molecular characteristic of the chemical composition of the physical object specimen to further identify and authenticate the originality of coin 1. Spectrometry is the spectroscopic technique used to assess the concentration or amount of a given chemical (atomic, molecular, or ionic) species. Spectroscopy/spectrometry is often used in physical and analytical chemistry for the identification of substances through the spectrum emitted from or absorbed by them. There are many different types of spectroscopic imaging, but not limited to, including X-ray, Ultraviolet, and Infrared that would be appropriate types for producing a chemical digital image assessment of the chemical molecular structure of coin 1, or other collectibles and physical objects of antiquity. Infrared spectroscopy offers the possibility to measure different types of inter atomic bond vibrations at different frequencies. Especially in organic chemistry the analysis of IR absorption spectra shows what type of bonds are present in the sample. The spectroscopic image can detect contaminants that have deceptively been used to artificially enhance the appearance of coin 1, and as a means to authenticate originality of the chemical molecular structure of the physical object specimen. As such a spectroscopic image can be another method to further identify and authenticate coin 1, in addition to one or more digital images of the unique appearance characteristics of the physical object specimen. Such combination of the present invention provides a valuable long-term authentication and identification record. Data storage device 31 may also include a tamper evident indicator, such as are used with some OTC and prescription medications, where package entry creates a telltale or reveal that cannot be corrected once tampering has occurred.

Barcode identifier label 21 with barcode 23 and collectable object descriptors 25, when read by the appropriate barcode reader may also provide predetermined characteristics of coin 1 by means of an appropriate barcode reader device.

FIG. 2 shows an assembled top plan view of a protection, authentication, identification device 100, comprised of a collectible holder having an upper housing 3 and a lower housing 5 that are formed to enclose, protect and preserve a collectable object specimen, such as coin 1. Nondetachably secured to the holder device is collectable coin 1, data storage device 31, such as a Flash Memory Card (FMC), and a barcode identifier label 21. Flexible, plastic core 41 secures the collectable coin 1, Flash Memory Card (FMC) 31, and barcode label 21 between upper housing 3, and lower housing 5, by a method that resists disassembly such as ultrasonic welding of upper and lower housing during an assembly process. Opening 7 is formed in collectable holder upper housings 3 and lower housing 5, providing access for a memory storage Reader device, such as a Flash Memory Reader device or cable to electronically attach to the port end of the Flash Memory Card (FMC) 31, which has been nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication, identification device 100 by means of assembly with plastic core 41, upper housing 3, and lower housing 5.

FIG. 3 shows an assembled front elevation view of a protection, authentication, identification device 100, comprised of a collectible holder having an upper housing 3 and a lower housing 5. Opening 7 is formed in collectable holder upper housings 3 and lower housing 5, providing access for an Flash Memory reader device or electronic cable attachment, to electronically attach to the port end 33 of the Flash Memory Card (FMC) 31.

FIG. 4 shows an assembled rear elevation view of a protection, authentication, identification device 100, comprised of a collectible holder having an upper housing 3 and a lower housing 5. Opening 7 is formed in collectable holder upper housings 3 and lower housing 5, and provides-access for coupling one end of an inexpensive USB type cable to port 35 and the other end to a corresponding USB port of a standard computer system. Port 35 is just one of many different types of port designs and electronic configurations that may be utilized with the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows a disassembled exploded front perspective view of a protection, authentication, identification device 200, wherein the separate plastic core 41 of FIG. 1 is eliminated and its features and functions are incorporated into a primary holder. Device 200 is configured in a microscope slide form factor measuring approximately 75 mm by 25 mm. It may be used in conjunction with microscopic functions or it may be used without microscopic functions. The protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object 200 includes a holder 211 having a holding area 213 (recessed well) for holding a physical object specimen, such as a tissue sample 207. Tissue sample 207 is nondetachably held to holder 211 by a transparent cover 205 that seats, for instance by a friction fit method in well recess 213, and becomes predominantly flush with the top surface of holder 211, thereby inhibiting the removal of both cover 205 and tissue sample 207. Cover 205 could also be glued to the microscope slide, in order to seal off the specimen from contamination and decay. A number of sealants may be used, including commercial sealants, laboratory preparations, or even regular clear nail polish, depending on the sample. A solvent-free sealant that may be used for live cell samples is “varlap”, a mixture of vaseline, lanolin and paraffin in equal parts. Microscope slides are usually made of glass, such as soda lime glass or borosilicate glass, but specialty plastics may also be used. Fused quartz slides are often used when ultraviolet transparency is important, e.g. in fluorescence microscopy. The present embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is merely illustrative of one embodiment of the present invention and is not for the purpose of limiting same, as there are many other methods of nondetachably mounting a physical object specimen to a microscope slide, as well as many other microscope slide form factors. Additionally, within the scope of the present invention, more than one physical object specimen may be held to the holder of the present invention, and one or more digital images may be maintained for each of the physical object specimens. For instance the present holder may be formed with two well recesses in the slide holder, with two covers, for two similar or even unrelated physical object specimens.

FIG. 5 not only illustrates the device 200 shown, but also further establishes that the physical holder and support core may be three pieces (FIG. 1), or two pieces (this FIG. 5). Further, if cover 205 were hinged (as by a plastic living hinge) to holder 211, and data storage device 257 slipped into a ratcheted, elongated holder, the holder of the present invention could be one, uni-structural member. The specifics of the holder design must include the specimen holding feature, the nondetachable data storage deviceholding feature, and the identifier holding feature, as well as optional but preferred visible access to the specimen. Otherwise, the holder may be of any shape and number of parts that a designer may choose or need.

Data storage device 221 is a non-volatile flash memory type data storage device that is integrated to one end, or holding area of the microscope slide holder 213. This may be accomplished simply by permanently bonding the data storage device to the microscope slide during the manufacturing process. “Non-volatile” is well known in the industry as a data storage device that is non-powered, or simply, does not have a power source on-board, such as a battery. Data storage device 221 is a flash memory type device, and can simply be inserted directly into a USB port of a standard computer or computerized device to display the recorded digital image of tissue sample 207 displaying finely detailed unique appearance characteristics and traits of the physical object specimen that is useful for identification, authentication, verification, and examination purposes. In many related bio-medical sciences and forensic sciences, the digital image might have a displayed date and time of the digital image creation that is viewable within the frame of the digital image. Data storage device 221 may be electronically configured and partitioned to allow for additional digital image recordings of physical specimen 207. This may occur at variable time intervals and the digital image may include a visible date and time creation record, for further evaluation and to establish a visual identification record of any changes in the state of physical object specimen 207, over time, and then can be comparatively viewed and analyzed with earlier recorded and dated digital images. For data security reasons, data storage device 221 may be configured, in part or whole, with an immutable condition to deter alteration or erasing data or images related to physical object specimen 207. Data storage device 221 may be partitioned with a rewritable partition for updating future data or image records, and may also contain some dedicated security logic, encryption, or other security features.

Data storage device 221 may further record and maintain a spectroscopic chemical image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique molecular characteristic of the chemical composition of physical object specimen 207. The spectroscopic digital image can further identify and authenticate tissue sample 207. Spectrometry is the spectroscopic technique used to assess the concentration or amount of a given chemical (atomic, molecular, or ionic) species. Spectroscopy/spectrometry is often used in physical and analytical chemistry for the identification of substances through the spectrum emitted from or absorbed by them. There are many different types of spectroscopic imaging, but not limited to, including X-ray, Ultraviolet, and Infrared, that would be appropriate types for a digital image assessment of the chemical molecular structure of tissue sample 207. The spectroscopic chemical digital image would be recorded on data storage device 221 and also used to verify, identify, and authenticate tissue sample 207.

Barcode label 203 may include basic identifier information that is associated with tissue sample 207, and data storage device 221, may also provide corresponding information related to barcode label 203.

FIG. 6 shows a right front perspective view of the present invention device in an assembled view similar to that shown in FIG. 5 with an optional protective cap 261 and an illuminating indicator LED 273. Similar to FIG. 5, this embodiment for a protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object 250 is also a microscope slide form factor. Depending on storage needs or laboratory protocols, it may include a protective cap 261 that slides over the contact surfaces of data storage device 257 for long-term inactive storage. In another alternative for storage of multiple devices in a same container housing, as often times microscope slides are stored in cassette housings, data storage device 257 may be seated in an electronic port of the cassette housing, and illuminating indicator LED 273 would illuminate upon a computerized retrieval selection protocol activated by a user during a selection process. This could be accomplished by a Graphical User Interface (GUI) wherein the user looking for a particular slide would activate (click on) the name or image associated with the desired microscope slide for retrieval. The electronic port of the selected microscope would then electronically activate and illuminate indicator LED 273.

FIG. 7 shows a right front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention device similar to that shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 7 shows another variation of the present invention in a microscope form factor 300. Of notably difference, non-volatile data storage device 321 is an optical laser actuated type data storage recording device. A panel of gold-colored laser sensitive material is laminated onto the surface or established within a laminate to the protection, authentication, identification device 300, and stores at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of tissue specimen 331. The laser sensitive material is comprised of several layers that react when a laser light is directed at them. Optical data storage is an electronic storage medium that uses low-power laser beams to record and retrieve digital (binary) data. In optical-storage technology, a laser beam encodes digital data onto an optical, or laser material in the form of tiny pits arranged in tracks on the reactive surface substrate. A low-power laser scanner is used to “read” these pits, with variations in the intensity of reflected light from the pits being converted into electric signals.

FIG. 8 shows a right front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention device similar to that shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 8 shows another variation of the present invention in a microscope slide form factor 400. Of notably difference, is non-volatile data storage device 421 is an integrated circuit type data storage device capable of storing at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of the physical object specimen, such as tissue sample 441. Sometimes referred to as a smart card chip, this nonvolatile electronic data storage device is read by radio frequency (RF) signals utilizing a built-in inductor to capture some of the incident radio-frequency interrogation signal, rectify it, and use it to power the electronics of the data storage device.

FIG. 9 shows a right front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention device. FIG. 9 illustrates, but not limited to, yet another form factor of the present invention. A protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object 500, is comprised of a collectible holder having an upper housing 505 and a lower housing 507 that are bonded together. The housing or holder of the present invention may vary greatly in size and shape depending on the size and shape of the physical object that will be contained in the holder. For example, physical object 501 may be a fossil such as a Megalodon Shark tooth (Miocene-Pliocene).

Inherently, physical objects have visible appearance characteristics such as, shape, form, color, reflectance, gloss, texture, contrast, scale, and other visibly discernable characteristics. Physical object 501 can therefore be identified as a Megalodon Shark tooth based on appearance identification characteristics. Additionally, other scientific methods for identification may be used in conjunction with the digital image authentication record, such as carbon dating analysis, which is common for fossils and physical objects of antiquity. Data storage device 521 is a non-volatile memory device such integrated circuit type data storage device, for example a smart card chip, capable of recording and storing at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of physical object specimen 501. Additional data and information may also be stored in the protection, authentication, identification device's data storage device 521 for physical object specimen 500, for example, the rich history and lore of the Megalodon Shark including pictorial images of the extinct shark may also be stored in data storage device 521.

Typically more than one digital image of physical object 501 would be appropriate to verify identification, and the digital images would necessarily have moderately to high resolution sufficient for a user to inspect the small unique appearance features for identification and authentication. A measuring device, such as a ruler, or measuring tape, may also be incorporated during the imaging process, as another means of identifying scale of the physical object. Data storage device 521 may also contain predetermined external database links, such as a link to an oceanography museum site, which may be in the form of Internet Hyperlinks, and may also provide additional information and data relevant to physical object 501.

FIG. 10 shows a diagram of a preferred embodiment of the present invention device 600, assembled with a physical object specimen 607, and the typical corresponding interface and read non-volatile data and imagery of data storage device 605 by a standard computerized device 620. FIG. 10 of the present invention shows a diagram of a protection, authentication, identification device 600 that includes protective holder 603, data storage device 605, and identifier barcode label 601. Physical object specimen 607 is shown assembled with protective holder 603. Data storage device 605 is a nonvolatile electronic data storage device nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication, identification device 600.

Nonvolatile data storage device 605 is readable and displayable by a standard computer system (or computerized device with a display screen) 620 connectable to data storage device 605 by wired or wireless means 610. Data storage device 605 is configured to record and store at least one digital image record including sufficient detail to record at least one appearance characteristic of physical object specimen 607. Data storage device 605 may further store information related to physical object specimen 607 including additional digital images that further authenticate and identify physical object specimen 607, such as a spectroscopic chemical digital image. Digital imagery may include any number of digital images necessary for authentication, identification or examination of physical object specimen 607, in part, or whole, and with or without magnification. Electronic data storage device 605 may further store Internet Hyperlinks that may access additional related information, data or images of physical object specimen 607 from a predetermined remote database 630, and the predetermined remote database 630 may have an encrypted security relationship with data storage device 605.

Although illustrative embodiments have been described herein in detail, it should be noted and will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that numerous variations may be made within the scope of this invention without departing from the principles and chief advantages of this invention. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the terms and expressions have been used herein as terms of description and not limitation. There is no intention to use the terms or expressions to exclude any equivalents of features shown and described or portions thereof, and this invention should be defined in accordance with the claims that follow, or the equivalence thereof. 

1. A protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen, said device comprising: a holder formed for assembly with at least one physical object specimen to provide protection and preservation of said at least one physical object specimen, said holder having a holding area for receiving said at least one physical object specimen, and further being formed so as to resist disassembly and separation with said at least one physical object specimen; and, a nonvolatile electronic data storage device configured to store at least one digital image of said at least one physical object specimen, said nonvolatile data storage device being nondetachably secured to said protection, authentication, identification device, and, said at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of said at least one physical object specimen; wherein said at least one digital image is readable and displayable by a standard computer system connectable to said nonvolatile electronic storage device.
 2. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1 wherein, said at least one digital image is immutable and includes a date record of the creation time of said at least one digital image.
 3. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1 wherein, said holder is a microscope slide.
 4. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1 wherein, said nonvolatile electronic data storage device further stores at least one electronic link that provides information related to said at least one physical object specimen.
 5. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1 wherein, said at least one digital image is readable and displayable via an encrypted security protocol by a computer system connectable to said nonvolatile electronic data storage device.
 6. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1, further comprising a barcode identifier that may also provide predetermined characteristics of said at least one physical object specimen.
 7. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1 wherein, said nonvolatile electronic data storage device is an integrated circuit type data storage device capable of storing said at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record said at least one unique appearance characteristic of said at least one physical object specimen.
 8. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1 wherein, said nonvolatile electronic data storage device is a laser reactive optical type data storage device capable of storing said at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of said at least one physical object specimen.
 9. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 7 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is a flash memory type data storage device.
 10. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 7 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is a radio frequency (RF) type data storage device.
 11. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 7 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is a smart card chip.
 12. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 10 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is an RFID tag.
 13. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 7 wherein, said flash memory type data storage device includes an illuminating selection indicator.
 14. A protection, authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen, said device comprising: a holder formed for assembly with at least one physical object specimen to provide protection and preservation of said at least one physical object specimen, said holder having a holding area for receiving said at least one physical object specimen, and said holder further being formed so as to resist disassembly and separation with said at least one physical object specimen; and, a nonvolatile electronic data storage device configured to store at least one digital image of said at least one physical object specimen, and, said nonvolatile data storage device being nondetachably secured to said protection, authentication, identification device, and, said at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of said at least one physical object specimen, and, said data storage device further configured to store at least one spectroscopic chemical image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique molecular characteristic of the chemical composition of said at least one physical object specimen; wherein said at least one digital image is readable and displayable by a computer system connectable to said nonvolatile electronic storage device.
 15. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14 wherein, said at least one digital image is immutable and includes a date record of the creation time of said at least one digital image.
 16. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14 wherein, said holder is a microscope slide.
 17. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14 wherein, said nonvolatile electronic data storage device further stores at least one electronic link that provides information related to said at least one physical object specimen.
 18. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14 wherein, said at least one digital image is readable and displayable via an encrypted security protocol by a computer system connectable to said nonvolatile electronic data storage device.
 19. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14, further comprising a barcode identifier that may also provide predetermined characteristics of said at least one physical object specimen.
 20. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14 wherein, said nonvolatile electronic data storage device is an integrated circuit type data storage device capable of storing said at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of said at least one physical object specimen, and, said data storage device further configured to store at least one spectroscopic chemical image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique molecular characteristic of the chemical composition of said at least one physical object specimen.
 21. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14 wherein, said nonvolatile electronic data storage device is a laser reactive optical type data storage device capable of storing said at least one digital image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique appearance characteristic of said at least one physical object specimen, and, said data storage device further configured to store at least one spectroscopic chemical image including sufficient detail to record at least one unique molecular characteristic of the chemical composition of said at least one physical object specimen.
 22. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 14 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is a flash memory type data storage device.
 23. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 20 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is a radio frequency (RF) type data storage device.
 24. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 20 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is a smart card chip.
 25. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 20 wherein, said integrated circuit type data storage device is an RFID tag.
 26. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 22 wherein, said flash memory type data storage device includes an illuminating indicator activated by a computerized selection process. 